Visa and Permit Guide for East African Travelers

Planning a safari across East Africa is one of the most exciting journeys any traveler can undertake. From tracking mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda to watching the Great Migration in Tanzania or witnessing the flamingo-dotted lakes of Kenya, the region offers an unparalleled mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. But before you can set off on this unforgettable expedition, there’s one essential element to get right: your visas and travel permits.

East Africa’s visa and permit system may seem complex at first — with different countries having their own regulations, entry requirements, and special travel passes — but with a little guidance, it’s easy to navigate. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about visas, gorilla permits, and park passes for travel across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania, ensuring a seamless experience from the moment you arrive.

Understanding the East African Visa Landscape

East Africa is a region rich in collaboration, and several countries have taken major steps to make cross-border travel easier for tourists. Still, depending on your itinerary and nationality, visa requirements can differ slightly.

The region’s main safari destinations include:

• Uganda

• Rwanda

• Kenya

• Tanzania

• (And sometimes the Democratic Republic of Congo for travelers visiting Virunga or Nyiragongo)

Before traveling, it’s essential to check the latest visa requirements from official embassy or immigration websites — but here’s a comprehensive overview to help you plan with confidence.

1. The East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV)

One of the most traveler-friendly initiatives in the region is the East Africa Tourist Visa, a special multi-country visa that allows visitors to explore Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda with a single document.

Key Features of the EATV:

• Cost: USD 100 per person

• Validity: 90 days (non-renewable)

• Entries: Multiple entries between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya

• Eligible Countries: Most nationalities are eligible, but always confirm before applying

• Processing Time: Usually 3–5 working days

How It Works

Once issued, the East Africa Tourist Visa allows you to travel freely between Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda without having to apply for separate visas. However, it does not cover Tanzania, Burundi, or South Sudan — separate visas are required for those countries.

Where to Apply:

You can apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa through the embassy or online portal of the country you intend to enter first. For example:

• If your trip begins in Uganda, apply through Uganda’s e-visa website.

• If you start in Rwanda, apply via Rwanda’s immigration portal.

• If your entry point is Kenya, apply through Kenya’s eCitizen system.

Each country issues the same visa on behalf of all three, but it must be used first in the country that issued it.

Documents Needed:

• Passport valid for at least six months

• Recent passport photo (digital for online applications)

• Return or onward travel ticket

• Itinerary and proof of accommodation

• Payment confirmation (credit/debit card)

This visa is perfect for travelers planning multi-country safaris, such as gorilla trekking in Uganda, a visit to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, and then crossing into Kenya for a Maasai Mara adventure — all without bureaucratic hurdles.

2. Country-Specific Visa Requirements

A. Uganda Visa Guide

Uganda’s visa process is streamlined and fully digital.

• Visa Type: Single-entry tourist visa

• Cost: USD 50

• Validity: 90 days

• Processing Time: 3–5 working days

• Application: Apply online via Uganda’s Immigration Portal

Required Documents:

• Passport valid for six months

• Passport-size photo

• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory)

• Travel itinerary and accommodation proof

Uganda also offers multiple-entry visas (USD 100 for six months, USD 200 for one year), ideal for business travelers or those planning longer stays.

B. Rwanda Visa Guide

Rwanda offers one of the most efficient entry systems in Africa, with easy e-visa processing and visa-on-arrival options.

• Visa Type: Single-entry tourist visa

• Cost: USD 50

• Validity: 30 days

• Processing Time: 1–3 working days

• Application: Apply online at Rwanda Immigration E-Visa

Good to Know:

• Citizens of all African Union, Commonwealth, and Francophonie member states can obtain a visa on arrival without prior application.

• The East Africa Tourist Visa can also be issued by Rwanda upon request.

Documents Needed:

• Passport valid for six months

• Return ticket or proof of onward travel

• Accommodation details

Rwanda also provides transit visas (valid for 72 hours) for travelers making short stops between flights.

C. Kenya Visa Guide

Kenya’s visa process has moved entirely online — no visas are issued on arrival.

• Visa Type: Single-entry tourist visa

• Cost: USD 51

• Validity: 90 days

• Processing Time: 2–5 business days

• Application: Apply via Kenya’s eCitizen Portal

Required Documents:

• Passport valid for six months

• Return ticket and itinerary

• Hotel booking confirmation

• Passport photo and scanned copy of passport bio-data page

Kenya also issues multiple-entry visas for travelers entering several times within the validity period (USD 100).

D. Tanzania Visa Guide

Tanzania is not part of the East Africa Tourist Visa arrangement, so you’ll need a separate visa to enter.

• Visa Type: Ordinary (Tourist) Visa

• Cost: USD 50 (most nationalities) or USD 100 (for U.S. citizens)

• Validity: 90 days

• Processing Time: 3–10 working days

• Application: Apply via Tanzania’s Immigration E-Visa Portal

Documents Needed:

• Passport valid for six months

• Passport photo

• Return or onward ticket

• Travel itinerary and accommodation booking

Visa on Arrival:
Most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at international airports (Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar), but it’s safer and faster to apply online in advance.

Zanzibar Note:
If entering through Zanzibar, the same Tanzanian visa applies — you don’t need a separate one.

3. Gorilla Trekking Permits

If your East African safari includes the once-in-a-lifetime experience of gorilla trekking, you’ll need a special trekking permit — separate from your visa.

A. Uganda Gorilla Permits

• Location: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

• Cost: USD 800 per person (as of 2025)

• Booking: Through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or a registered tour operator like Moreen Tours & Travel.

• Availability: Limited to 8 permits per gorilla family per day — book at least 6 months in advance.

B. Rwanda Gorilla Permits

• Location: Volcanoes National Park

• Cost: USD 1,500 per person

• Booking: Through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or authorized agents.

• Discounts: Rwanda occasionally offers discounted rates for East African citizens or regional visitors during promotional periods.

C. Congo Gorilla Permits

• Location: Virunga National Park (DRC)

• Cost: Around USD 400 per person

• Note: Always check the latest security and travel advisories before planning a trip here.

These permits include the guided trek, park entry, and one hour of magical interaction with a habituated gorilla family — a memory that’s worth every penny.

4. Other Safari Permits and Park Fees

Each East African country manages its own wildlife reserves and national parks, and entry fees are usually separate from your visa.

Uganda:

• Managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

• Entry fees:

  • Murchison Falls NP: USD 45/day

  • Queen Elizabeth NP: USD 40/day

  • Kibale Forest NP (chimp trekking): USD 250

Kenya:

• Managed by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

• Entry fees (as of 2025):

  • Maasai Mara: USD 100/day

  • Amboseli NP: USD 80/day

Tanzania:

• Managed by Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA).

• Entry fees:

  • Serengeti NP: USD 70–80/day

  • Ngorongoro Conservation Area: USD 60 plus crater service fee (USD 295/vehicle)

Rwanda:

• Managed by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

• Volcanoes NP (non-gorilla visits): USD 75/day

• Nyungwe Forest NP: USD 60/day

Most park fees can be pre-paid by your tour operator or paid on arrival via card or cash (USD).

5. Border Crossings and Travel Logistics

If you’re traveling overland between East African countries, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Land borders like Gatuna (Uganda–Rwanda), Busia (Uganda–Kenya), and Namanga (Kenya–Tanzania) are open and well-staffed.

• Carry printed copies of your visa and passport — digital copies may not always be accepted.

• Always exit officially from one country before entering another to avoid overstaying penalties.

• Use the same passport you used to apply for your visa or East Africa Tourist Visa.

6. Special Notes for African and Regional Travelers

If you’re an East African Community (EAC) citizen (Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DR Congo), you can travel freely within the region using a national ID — no visa required.

EAC citizens also benefit from discounted park entry fees and lower gorilla permit prices in Uganda and Rwanda.

7. Practical Visa Tips for a Smooth Safari

• Apply early: Start the visa process at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

• Use official websites only: Beware of fake visa agents charging extra.

• Carry cash (USD): Some border posts still accept only cash payments for visa fees.

• Check validity: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity and two blank pages.

• Print confirmations: Always print your e-visa or confirmation emails.

• Respect visa durations: Overstaying can lead to fines or travel bans.

Why Getting Your Visas and Permits Right Matters

Securing the correct visas and permits ensures your safari runs smoothly and stress-free. With all paperwork in order, you can focus entirely on the moments that matter — spotting your first leopard, listening to the roar of a waterfall, or sharing a quiet hour with gorillas in the mist.

A little preparation goes a long way in turning your East African safari into the effortless adventure of your dreams.

Travel with Moreen Tours & Travel

To make your visa and permit process effortless, travel with Moreen Tours & Travel — your trusted partner for tailor-made safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Why choose Moreen Tours & Travel:

• Visa and permit assistance: We handle all your travel documentation, gorilla permits, and park fees.

• Seamless multi-country safaris: Expert planning for itineraries spanning Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

• Local expertise: Experienced guides who ensure smooth border crossings and hassle-free logistics.

• Sustainable travel: Supporting conservation and community initiatives across East Africa.

With Moreen Tours & Travel, you can forget the paperwork and focus on the wonder — the wildlife, the people, and the untamed beauty that defines East Africa.